At the Prestige Group Stadium, Hartlepool United and Forest Green Rovers lock horns in a fixture that holds contrasting significance for each club. Hartlepool, settled comfortably in mid-table, will be eager to sign off the season on a high note, whilst Forest Green Rovers, already assured of a play-off semi-final berth, will seek to maintain their upward trajectory and sharpen their focus ahead of their promotion bid.
Hartlepool’s recent performances have been inconsistent, marked by a solitary defeat in their last outing. Their attack, however, has demonstrated admirable consistency, finding the back of the net in their previous ten matches. This attacking prowess is somewhat offset by a defence that has shown vulnerabilities, conceding goals on a regular basis.
Forest Green Rovers arrive in considerably more buoyant mood, currently riding a three-match unbeaten streak. Their attack has also been in fine fettle, scoring in each of their last six games. This rich vein of form serves to underline their credentials as serious contenders for promotion.
Recent history favours Forest Green. The sides have only met once in the past three seasons, earlier this campaign, with Forest Green claiming a narrow 1-0 victory. Charlie McCann’s second-half strike proved decisive on that occasion.
In the league table, Hartlepool United occupy 12th position with 59 points, having recorded 14 wins, 17 draws, and 14 losses from their 45 games. Their goal difference stands at -3, with 58 goals scored and 61 conceded. Forest Green Rovers, conversely, sit third with 82 points, a testament to their impressive season. They have secured 22 wins, 16 draws, and suffered just 7 defeats, boasting a healthy goal difference of 27, having scored 68 goals and conceded 41.
For Hartlepool, a victory would provide a welcome morale boost and a positive conclusion to the season, potentially lifting them a place or two in the standings. A draw would do little to alter their current course, while a defeat could see them drop further down the table. Forest Green, already guaranteed their play-off spot, will be keen to avoid a loss to maintain their momentum. A win would further bolster their confidence, while a draw would represent a satisfactory outcome. A defeat, however, could potentially undermine their confidence as they approach the crucial play-off semi-finals.